User Experience In Architecture
Project Summary
For this project ,the task was to begin design investigations from the understanding of user experience first, relaxing the often-privileged considerations of overall architectural and spatial composition and form-making. Utilizing the detailed program briefs that were made prior for the Center of Design for Disassembly, the aim was to effectively design architecture ‘outward’ from human experience rather than ‘inward’ towards it. The comprehensive design of the project was based on the flows and systems of experiences, services, needs, and other performative criteria (environmental performance, functional adjacencies, and requirements, etc.) rather than the compositional, formal, and graphic principles that often dominate a conceptual architectural design process.
Scenario 1
Entering the VR room in the heart of our Design for Disassembly (DFD) facility is a daily experience of innovation. This space seamlessly blends digital precision with creative chaos, immersing us in a world where sustainable design comes to life. Some people, wearing VR headsets, move gracefully, while on the other side, groups collaborate to solve the latest challenges in the new DFD project.
Moving to the lounge and corridor, the principles of DFD become evident. The lounge, a comfortable space on the left, exudes eco-friendly vibes with sustainable materials blending seamlessly with nature. This setting encourages a mix of relaxation and environmental responsibility. Walking through the corridor, the office and kitchen catch my eye. As I approach the office, the bright sunlight streaming through the windows provides a warm atmosphere.
Stepping into the office area, the workspace reflects the practical essence of DFD. Open layouts promote collaboration, and easily disassembled workstations highlight our commitment to adaptability. Sustainability is not just a concept here; it becomes a tangible reality, with recycled materials and deliberate design choices shaping a workspace that embodies responsibility.
During the midday break, everyone gathers in the kitchen, where I find myself in line for a cup of coffee. The kitchen, though spacious for the DFDI workforce, fosters a relaxed environment for casual conversations. Recycling bins next to the counter underscore the facility's dedication to environmental consciousness. Additionally, the movable wall separating the corridor and lounge from the kitchen stands out as a feature, emphasizing our commitment to functional flexibility.
Scenario 2
As the studio class excitedly approaches the DfDi loading dock, the industrial hum of machinery and the scent of fresh materials permeate the air. An architect from the firm welcomes the group directing their attention to the loading dock's center stage, a window assembly demonstration. A skilled technician meticulously tests durability and energy efficiency, giving the group insights into the design and construction process.
After witnessing the window assembly demonstration, the group follows the guide into the main building. The space is a creative hive, with architects and designers engrossed in their work at sleek, modern workstations. On the left side of the room, the guide points out storage areas neatly organized with materials and prototypes, showcasing the firm's commitment to sustainable practices.
The tour's highlight awaits as the group moves towards the back of the open office space. A nondescript door opens into a state-of-the-art Virtual Reality room. The transition is striking as the group steps into a space where that blurs the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds. Inside, the walls are covered in sensors and screens, immersing visitors in a digital landscape. The guide provides the class with VR headsets to explore and experience various construction methods in augmented and virtual reality. Detailed models of ongoing projects come to life, showcasing the intricate details of architectural designs and construction processes. As the tour concludes, the group leaves the VR room with a newfound appreciation for the intersection of cutting-edge technology and traditional architectural practices at DfDi.
Strategy
User Experience Mapping:
Scenario 1
Integrating a typical programming map with overlaying the actions, sights, sounds, and smells the user encountered while walking through the three programs that were randomly given, this bubble map tells the story of the user that was later used in the creation of the video render of the space.
User Experience Mapping:
Scenario 2
Taking on a similar approach from scenario 1, in this scenario there is a switch of what the user is personally sensing, but an overall understanding of what each of the spaces represent in a higher sense.
Sections
Quick section through the three randomized rooms that show the connection and threshold spaces. This was the first attempt at turning the experiences into architectural elements.
Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Design
Static Renders
Scenario 1
Scenario 2
Animate
Scenario 1 Video Render
This video showcases the final result of a scenario designed to optimize user experience within the space, based on initial user story statements. After establishing the foundational architecture, which represented the "bones" of the space, we brought it to life. Our goal was to evoke the emotions and visuals identified during our initial research.